We now have a new digital phone system that using an Oracle 8i database. I've used Microsoft SQL for years and this system is supported by our vendor but I'd like to learn more about the Oracle system. Any recommendations on good books, courses, email lists, etc.

Sorry, not really an Oracle guy. I'd start with Oracle, my company (www.iqdestination.com) also has some lower cost e-Learning options. Some of the other guys here have Oracle systems, maybe they'll post.

Oracle has two classes, the Enterprise DBA Parts 1A and 1B.. Both are 5 day courses.. Part 1A covers the administration and Architecture... I would say this is probably the best place to start if you want a class.. I went to the Oracle 8 DBA class, but I took PL/SQL first. For Self study, the Oracle Press books are good.. If you don't care about going for the OCP get Kevin Loney's book Oracle 8i DBA Handbook.. Also anything that Rich Niemiec and the folks from TUSC (see www.tusc.com) is *really* good. Stay away from the Beginners Guide that Oracle press puts out.. I did't think it was worth the money or time to read.